Conrad Kelly, Principal Karori Normal School, spoke to a joint meeting of Rotary Karori and Karori Lions on 8 November. Conrad has taught in schools in New Zealand, England and Kuwait, and has held a number of senior leadership roles. Since he joined KNS in 2011, the roll has climbed rapidly and KNS is now the largest public school in Karori.
Changes are taking place in thinking on education for New Zealand children and the educational aims and objectives of schools. In particular, KNS has a clear set of values (respect, responsibility, empathy, integrity and excellence) applicable to everything the school does.
Learning is not just something that happens at school. It is about developing the whole child - to feel comfortable socially through emotional development and to manage themselves.
There are challenging situations every day and the school "wants kids to understand why they must treat people with respect and integrity". The school's motto is "we encourage our children to be the best they can be", and in this respect older children are involved in mentoring and leadership roles.
As a "normal" school, KNS is active in the training of student teachers, which sharpens the professional edge of all teaching staff.
Conrad thanked Rotary Karori for its financial support over the years to enable all students to take part in educational trips organised by the school.
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